BOCA RATON, Fla. (AP) — After a most bizarre week for Florida Atlantic, the Owls rallied around their new coach and each other.

FAU beat Tulane 34-17 on Saturday, three days since coach Carl Pelini resigned after admitting to school officials he used illegal drugs. Defensive coordinator Pete Rekstis also resigned on Wednesday after admitting drug use.

The Owls (3-6, 3-4 Conference USA) came together under trying circumstances. Instead of wearing their names on the backs of their jerseys, they all had FAU.

"Sometimes you need a slap in the face to refocus," said defensive end Andrew Stryffeler, one of FAU's captains. "This wasn't exactly what we were looking for, but we really took the opportunity to step it up this week."

"It felt awesome," Wright said of the victory. "I've been auditioning for 18 years for this opportunity."

FAU athletic director Patrick Chun said during halftime he wouldn't be discussing the search for a new head coach until he names that new coach. Chun, however, did say Wright will be considered for the position, saying, "He's absolutely a candidate for the job."

Florida State Seminoles running back Devonta Freeman (8) celebrates his touchdown against the Miami Hurricanes with Florida State Seminoles offensive linesman Cameron Erving (75) during the first quarter at Doak Campbell Stadium.
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New Mexico Lobos cornerback SaQwan Edwards (15) gestures to the crowd after a defensive stop during the first half against the San Diego State Aztecs at Qualcomm Stadium.
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North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Marquise Williams (12) throws as he is pressured by North Carolina State Wolfpack defensive end Forrest West (97) during the first half at Carter Finley Stadium.
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Boston College Eagles running back Andre Williams (44) breaks a tackle for a 19 yard touchdown play in the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Alumni Stadium.
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South Carolina Gamecocks defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (7) pursues the ball during the second quarter against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Williams-Brice Stadium.
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Arizona State quarterback Taylor Kelly (10) throws a pass to wide receiver Jaelen Strong over Washington State linebacker Cyrus Coen (42) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Thursday, Oct. 31, 2013, at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Wash.
Dean Hare, AP

Arizona State safety Alden Darby (4) knocks the ball loose while tackling Washington State wide receiver Gabe Marks (9) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Thursday, Oct. 31, 2013, at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Wash. Arizona State recovered the ball.
Dean Hare, AP